Translation and Meaning of: 背中 - senaka

The Japanese word 背中 (せなか, senaka) is a common term in everyday life, but it carries interesting cultural and linguistic nuances. If you are studying Japanese or simply have an interest in the language, understanding its meaning, usage, and context can enrich your knowledge. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic translation to curiosities about how this word is perceived in Japan.

背中 is frequently used in everyday conversations, but it also appears in expressions and even in Japanese media. Whether to describe a part of the body or in more symbolic contexts, it plays a relevant role in the language. Let's see how to memorize it and apply it correctly, always based on reliable sources like the Suki Nihongo dictionary.

Meaning and use of 背中

The term 背中 translates literally as "back," referring to the posterior part of the human torso. However, its usage goes beyond the anatomical definition. In Japan, it can appear in emotional or metaphorical contexts, such as in expressions that suggest support or loneliness.

A practical example is the phrase "背中を押す" (senaka o osu), which means "to give a push on the back" in the figurative sense of encouraging someone. This type of usage shows how the word is linked to social and relational concepts in Japanese culture, going beyond the physical meaning.

Origin and writing of 背中

The word 背中 is composed of two kanji: 背 (which means "back" or "height") and 中 (which can mean "inside" or "middle"). Together, they form a term that describes the central part of the back. This combination is common in Japanese words that refer to body parts or specific locations.

It is worth noting that 背中 is written only with kanji, without the use of hiragana or katakana in its standard form. This aids in memorization, as the image of the characters becomes clearer. For students, associating the kanji 背 with other related terms, such as 背景 (haikei, "background"), can be a useful strategy.

Back in Japanese culture

In Japan, the back (背中) has a particular cultural significance. It is often associated with trust and vulnerability. For example, turning your back on someone can be interpreted as a gesture of disdain or, in other contexts, of extreme trust.

This duality appears in various expressions and even in Japanese art. In animes and mangas, it is common to see characters showing their backs in moments of determination or farewell. This symbolism reinforces how the Japanese language connects physical terms to emotional and social concepts in a unique way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 背後 (はいご) - Back, what is behind someone or something.
• 背面 (はいめん) - Back surface, like on the back of an object.
• 背部 (はいぶ) - Costas, referring to the back part of the body.
• 背骨 (せぼね) - Vertebral column, the bony structure that supports the body.
• 背筋 (せすじ) - Back muscles, specifically referring to the muscles that make up the back region.

背中

Romaji: senaka
Kana: せなか
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: rear (of the body)

Meaning in English: back (of body)

Definition: The parte behind the human body.

Example Sentences - (背中) senaka

See below some example sentences:

背中が痛いです。

Senaka ga itai desu

My back is hurting.

My back hurts.

• 背中 (senaka) - means "back" in Japanese
• が (ga) - a subject particle in Japanese
• 痛い (itai) - means "sore" or "hurt" in Japanese
• です (desu) - a polite way of saying "is" or "are" in Japanese